Tips for Marketing Your Home
Getting your home ready for sale does not have to take large amounts of time or money. However, a relatively small investment in your home’s appearance will pay dividends in the form of a quicker sale at a higher price. A buyer’s first impression of your home could spell the difference between a handsome offer and no offer at all. That’s why we've prepared this list of helpful hints to assist you in getting ready.Exterior
1. Cracked or peeling paint should be touched up wherever necessary.
2. Brush away cobwebs and dirt from underhangs.
3. On blacktop driveways, a fresh coat of sealer makes for a neater appearance.
4. Mow lawn regularly to maintain appearance.
5. Avoid excessive lawn ornamentation which could give a cluttered look.
6. Trim back shrubbery, especially where it blocks windows. Remove or replace dead trees and plants.
7. Replace cracked windowpanes and torn screens.
8. If selling in winter, keep sidewalks and drives free from ice and snow.
Interior
1. Thin out personal items and furniture. This will make your home appear more spacious.
2. Organize closet to avoid the overstuffed look.
3. Consider replacing any damaged or dated floor coverings.
4. Repair leaking faucets, broken windows, squeaky doors and floors.
5. Dust off basement mechanicals such as the furnace, water heater and softener.
6. If painting interior rooms, try to use neutral colors that would match most furniture.
7. Straighten out the garage to maximize parking and storage space. This might be a good time to consider a garage sale or the rental of a temporary storage warehouse.
8. Take whatever steps necessary to get rid of pet odors. You should also be cautious of smells from smoke, mildew and baby’s room.
It’s Showtime!
These last-minute preparations will be sure to show your home at its absolute best!
1. Turn on all lights. For daylight showings, open all window coverings to brighten rooms.
2. Soft music in a living room or family room area adds to the warmth of the home.
3. Clean the litter box if you have an indoor pet.
4. The aroma of brewing coffee, freshly baked bread or even steeping cinnamon water in a tea kettle will make the showing experience more enjoyable for a prospective purchaser.
5. Buyers are more comfortable looking at a house without occupants. Being absent from the home during showings will allow the buyers to speak more freely and thereby help your agent work more effectively. If you are present during showings, please locate and stay in one area of the home. Do not follow the Realtor from room to room unless he or she requests your assistance.
In today's super competitive real estate market, you need marketing expertise that includes the power and reach of the Internet in addition to more traditional forms of real estate marketing. Lake & City Homes gives you the strategic advantage you need to net top dollar now. Contact us today at (563) BUY-SOLD to learn how our comprehensive marketing plan gives you the upper hand regardless of market conditions. Or, fill out a request for a free market analysis of your home. There's no obligation.
At Lake & City Homes Realty, the sale of your home is our number one priority. We want to make your move as uncomplicated and hassle-free as possible. If you have questions about listing your home for sale, preparing your home for sale, or about the moving process, please call or fill in the form below. We're happy to share our expertise and are always at your service!
